THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With temperatures rising and the risk of heat waves increasing, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has emphasized the need for continued caution. He also directed government departments to undertake coordinated efforts to address the situation. The Chief Minister was speaking at a meeting convened to discuss heatwave preparedness, pre-monsoon sanitation measures, and infectious disease prevention.

The meeting, held at the North Conference Hall of the Secretariat, was attended by Ministers K. Rajan, K. N. Balagopal, V. Sivankutty, Veena George, A. K. Saseendran, J. Chinchu Rani, Dr. R. Bindu, Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan, heads of various departments, and Disaster Management Member Secretary Shekhar Kuriakose.

Drinking water facilities to be expanded

• Adequate drinking water will be ensured in public places in collaboration with various organizations and institutions.
• 'Thanneer Panthals' should be expanded
• Rest centers and drinking water facilities should be ensured for drivers, online food delivery workers, and security personnel.
• Revised working hours will be implemented for MGNREGA workers.
• Tourists will be given precautionary guidelines.
• Special attention should be given to animals.
• Water availability in forest areas and the conservation of water reservoirs will be ensured.
• Roadside vendors will be provided drinking water in coordination with hotels.

Primary health centers to provide treatment for heat-related illnesses

Steps will be taken to ensure treatment for heat-related illnesses at primary health centers. Currently, taluk-level hospitals have the necessary medical facilities. Special ward meetings and conventions will be held to discuss heatwave-related issues.

Monitoring team

• Special care should be given to bedridden patients and the elderly.
• A monitoring team comprising ASHA and health workers will be formed to collect detailed information.
• Guidelines will be provided for those involved in palliative care.
• Special attention should be given to the homeless.

Parks should not be closed
Shaded parks and public spaces should remain open to the public. Long-term measures should be implemented to address heat concerns, including reducing carbon emissions and planting more shade trees. Departments have been directed to take necessary actions in this regard.